MISSISSIPPI — Nearly $50,000 worth of kratom was seized from several convenience stores in Rankin County following an investigation prompted by citizen complaints, according to the Rankin County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators conducted undercover purchases and audits at stores in unincorporated areas of the county. The operation resulted in the seizure of about 2,030 packets of kratom with an estimated value of $48,267.
Employees accused of selling the substance to undercover agents were charged with an ordinance violation that carries a possible penalty of up to $1,000 in fines and/or six months in jail.
Authorities said the seized products will be kept as evidence until the cases are resolved and will then be destroyed.
Rankin County passed an ordinance in March 2024 banning the use, possession, distribution, and sale of kratom and synthetic cocaine in unincorporated parts of the county. State law later added restrictions, including requiring buyers to be at least 21 years old and placing a 25% excise tax on kratom products.
